The quality control team at Air Liquide's Cryogenic Technologies Center in Vitry-sur-Seine (Val-de-Marne, 94) now uses a portable Z-200C+ LIBS analyzer supplied by Quantum-RX, for control and traceability in its manufacturing processes.
Capable of carrying out PMI (Positive Material Identification) analyses, including carbon, the instrument, manufactured by the American company SciAps and distributed exclusively by Quantum-RX, can be used to check the alloys of piping components (tubes, flanges, elbows, etc.) and to inspect the welds of heat exchangers and distribution columns produced on site. The Z-200C+ is also used for material traceability of low-carbon stainless steels. Handy, lightweight and quick to use, the analyzer comes with software tools and a data export application.
A safe analyzer for operators
"Previously, we used an X-ray machine for quality control, explains Geoffroy Berger, Quality Control Supervisor at the Cryogenic Technologies Center. This entailed a number of constraints, notably the obligation to train "radiation protection officers" (PCR) to guarantee the protection of workers exposed to ionizing radiation."
Use of the Z-200C+ presents no danger to personnel, since its Class 1 laser produces no ionizing rays, and its use is not subject to ASN authorization. What's more, it does not require the wearing of eyewear, which is mandatory with Class 3B lasers.
Essential analysis of carbon in alloys and steels
What's more, traditional hand-held devices on the market didn't allow for analysis down to the carbon level. "It is essential to be able to check the alloy grades and control the welds, particularly the carbon content, of the tubes, flanges and elbows of our heat exchangers and distribution columns that we manufacture for the Air Liquide Group".says Geoffroy Berger.
Reliable results that are easy to export
Each Z-200C+ measurement is non-destructive and takes just a few seconds to complete, including pre-tiring and purging time. The reliability of the results is ensured by a data rejection algorithm that excludes incorrect measurements. "We also appreciate the data analysis and export tools, which enable us to process the results simply and efficiently".adds Geoffroy Berger.
Quick to learn
"We had to familiarize ourselves with the device, learn how to position our head correctly, and be careful not to move when taking measurements. But it didn't take us long to get the hang of it, because the analyzer is so easy to use. What's more, its small footprint and light weight, compared with previous equipment, are practical, especially when you have little space to work in".concludes the quality manager.
According to Quantum-RX, the Z-200C+ is the only portable LIBS instrument capable of analyzing carbon content in carbon, stainless and low-alloy steels. Using the portable version of Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) technology, the Z-200C+ incorporates a powerful pulsed laser (wavelength 1,064 nm) operating at 5.5 mJ/pulse and a frequency of 50 Hz.
Learn more: https://quantum-rx.com